Uluru is probably the most famous rock formation in the world and one of the must-see places in Australia. But once you get here, where can you stay near Uluru?
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We have been lucky enough to visit Uluru more than once in our lives. For me, this was actually my third time. Coming back here – seeing this stunning place firsthand and walking in the shadow of the world's largest monolith – will never lose its magic.
Uluru is not only an iconic heartstone of Australia, but also an important part of the Anangu creation story.
You can feel the energy of this place seeping from the ground into you.
However, we have only camped in the Red Center in the past. It may sound romantic when you're laying out your swag in the middle of the desert with the brilliant constellations of the Milky Way shining down on you, but there's more to air conditioning, ensuites and pillowcases than what's in your hands.
Check out our desert sailing video walkthrough here:
– Here are our other stories from Uluru and things you can do in the Red Centre.
– For the best deals on accommodation near Uluru, click here.
Where is Desert Sails Hotel?
Not far from Uluru is the small town of Yularala. Most of the town is made up of the Voyages Ayres Rock Resort* and its many hotels, of which Sails in the Desert is the largest.
There are also several shops and a great gallery where you can buy art from local artists.
Yulara is only about 10 kilometers away from the base of Uluru in a straight line, and it takes 15-20 minutes to drive from Sails in the Desert to the rock parking lot.
But due to the flatness of the desert, and Uluru's impressive 350m height, you can easily see it from the town – in fact from certain locations on the Desert Sail. You can also clearly see Kata Tju?a to the west.
* The Anangu, the indigenous people here, were asked if the name should be changed to Uluru Resort, but they said no because the resort had nothing to do with their culture. The same goes for Ayers Rock Airport.
How is the experience of sailing in the desert?
Sails in the Desert is an oasis in this difficult and remote red landscape. Its lagoon pool is surrounded by tall eucalyptus trees and lush gardens that belie its harsh surroundings.
The two-level terrace of the hotel accommodation can be seen through the foliage. Ground floor rooms have private patios, and first floor rooms have balconies.
Our superior room on the first floor was very comfortable with a well-appointed bathroom and was equipped with Wiru Sporting Goods, an Aboriginal owned and operated cosmetics company that uses native bush plants such as acacia seeds and quandong.
Superior rooms come with two queen beds or one king bed – our room had two queen beds, which was a little confusing at first, but it really shows how big this room is. The balcony is small but big enough for a few chairs and a table. Be aware that it’s usually too hot to stay here for too long during the day!
The room has some lovely decorations. The lighting is well thought out and there is a large piece of Aboriginal art from Marukyu Art Market and Central Australia Gallery along the road.
Where to eat at Desert Sails Restaurant
There are many places to eat here. Sails features the Pira poolside bar and Walpa lobby bar, as well as a dining area where breakfast is served every morning.
But since you're staying in part of Ayers Rock Resort, the rest of the resort is open to you.
Choose from casual dining options like Ayres Wok Noodle Bar and Kulata Academy Cafe all the way to Ilkari Restaurant and Mangata Bistro and Bar. And this is just the beginning!
Nearby places where Sails in the Desert can help
The best thing about staying at Voyages Ayres Rock Resort is that these people have access to the best activities around Uluru.
voyage Communicate closely with Anangu elders to ensure these attractions are in everyone’s best interest. Not only are they fascinating things to see, but they also benefit the Anangu and local communities.
A guided sunrise walk around Uluru is a must. Each walk is led by Anangu elders, and the stories they tell bring additional layers of meaning to this magical place.
Beyond that, the largest permanent drone show, Wintjiri Wiru, tells part of Anangu’s origin story and is absolutely stunning. I think I swore almost from beginning to end!
you can see Our full story and video about Wintjiri Wiru is here.
For the ultimate dining experience, Tali Wiru takes you into the desert dunes for one of the most unique meals you've ever had. As the sun sets and illuminates Uluru on the horizon, you'll enjoy a range of premium dishes using exquisite cooking techniques, bush tucker and matching wines.
Check Our full coverage of Tali Wiru is here.
Staying at Sails in the Desert is a great option for accommodation near Uluru, but your hotel room here is actually just the beginning of a much larger experience.
We stayed as media guests for Voyages and Ayers Rock Resort, but our experiences and opinions remain our own.
